YORK ace James Thompson finally captured the Green Flag British Touring Car Championship at his ninth attempt - but does not yet know if he will be back to defend his crown.

The 28-year-old achieved a feat which represents the pinnacle of his career by winning the sprint race at Donington Park and finishing third in the concluding feature event from which his closest rival Yvan Muller retired.

But although his Vauxhall team have already declared their intention to remain in a series they have dominated for the last two years, Thompson is unsure of what his future holds.

"I don't know what's happening about next season, although I'd love to return as the champion," said the new champion, perhaps mindful that Vauxhall did not retain the services of 2001 title winner Jason Plato.

"I'm not under contract and I don't think any team is in a position to confirm drivers at this stage. We'll have to see what happens.

"But it feels fantastic to be the champion at last. I've driven more than 200 races in this series and this is what I've worked towards. I'm overwhelmed.

"I've had the best car this year and that's all thanks to the team."

Despite his cautious words, it is odds on that Thompson will be handed a new deal by Vauxhall for he has been the undoubted star of this campaign and is a worthy champion.

Muller has now experienced two very similar seasons, just missing out on the championship each time, and if any of the duo is likely to depart the scene it is the Frenchman, who will have no shortage of offers from around Europe.

One of the more encouraging aspects of the 2002 series has been the emergence of some fresh talent and other teams taking the fight to Vauxhall, in particular Honda.

Andy Priaulx showed Honda are capable of matching Vauxhall with a fine end to the season and if they maintain their rate of improvement, it will be an interesting battle next year.

Priaulx's colleague Alan Morrison struggled to keep pace with the front-runners most of the time, but was a surprise winner of the feature race at Donington Park.

The Ulsterman started sixth on the grid, but was quick throughout and came home with a massive 12 seconds to spare over runner-up Warren Hughes in an MG.

"I'm delighted to win for everyone in the team," said 31-year-old Morrison, who won the BTCC production class in 2000 before stepping up to the big league following a year's break.

"It was manic over the first few laps, but then it became probably the easiest race I've had all year.

"We have showed unbelievable improvement from the beginning of the year and hopefully we will be back next year with an even stronger package. The car is a credit to everyone involved.

"I've got nothing signed for next year, but hopefully the team have been impressed with what they have seen from me. All I can do is stay fit and focused over the off-season."

Updated: 12:13 Monday, September 23, 2002